Discover travel photography and creative perspectives with Maurice Klaiber

Can you tell us a bit about how you became a photographer? And tell us something about your pictures.

My passion for photography was sparked early on by my father’s and grandfather’s old analog cameras. In 2014, I bought my first camera—a small APS-C camera with a kit lens. From the very beginning, I had the desire to capture special moments and the beauty of life.

After finishing school, I set off on the adventure of a lifetime: a backpacking trip around the world, through countless countries. It was there that I began to combine my creative passion for photography with my enthusiasm for travel, which became the cornerstone of my work as a travel photographer today.

My images capture the breathtaking nature and culture of our planet, often amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, highlighting its uniqueness and beauty. To capture these moments, I travel to the most remote places, always in search of new adventures, no matter the weather.

Photo: Maurice Klaiber

Please share something about your images. What is your special interest? How do you choose the colors, composition, themes etc.? 

My pictures focus strongly on the connection between landscape, emotion, and narrative. I am particularly fascinated by natural landscapes such as mountains, the sea, and the desert, as they carry a multitude of moods and stories. For me, each of these landscapes tells its own story and brings with it a unique atmosphere.

When choosing colors, I often orient myself to the natural conditions at the location to capture the mood of the moment. It is important to me to find a balance between authentic colors and enhancing emotions, so that the image feels alive and communicates the feelings of the moment.

Composition also plays a central role in my work. In addition to the classic rule of thirds and the golden ratio, I am increasingly focusing on minimalist compositions. This challenges my creativity and opens up new possibilities. Examples of this include lonely huts on mountain meadows, top-down shots with a drone of boats, or capturing the fleeting moment when a wave breaks. These minimalist approaches allow me to capture the essence of a moment and direct the viewer’s attention to the essentials.

Photo: Maurice Klaiber

What do you give for Christmas and why? What occasions are there, and which products would be suitable?

For several years now, it has become a tradition for me to design a calendar with my landscape pictures every Christmas, which I give to friends and family as a gift. The calendar contains 12 images each year, reflecting the various trips I have taken throughout the 12 months, plus a cover image. This gift brings me particular joy, as it allows my loved ones to gain a deeper insight into my experiences and travel destinations, taking them along on my journey. Personally, it’s also a great opportunity to look back on the past year and relive special moments.

This year, I’m especially excited to give my grandparents the acrylic photo print featuring a bridge and an old Defender for Christmas. Since my grandparents always follow my travels closely and are enthusiastic about them, this gift will be something very special for them.

What inspires you? Movies, books, magazines, or what surrounds you?

My inspiration comes from two main sources. First, I draw inspiration from the work of other landscape and travel photographers—whether through exhibitions, social media, or personal encounters. I’m fascinated by how others see and capture the world, and this motivates me to experiment with new perspectives and techniques.

Second, I draw a great deal of inspiration directly from the moments and places I photograph. I often take time to experience a location in peace for an hour or two before picking up the camera. During this time, I reflect on what the ideal composition might look like and patiently wait for the light to make the landscape shine in a special way. This connection to the moment and to nature is an essential part of my creative process.

What else should we know about you?

• Maurice Klaiber

• 25 years old

• Resident of Freiburg

• Studied Media and Communication Management and Online Marketing

• Main profession: Self-employed in marketing and photography, Master's student